28 November 2025
Klerksdorp Record, Klerksdorp - The shutdown affecting Tshepong Hospital’s Orthopaedic Ward will hopefully soon be something of the past.
The Department of Health’s Tebogo Lekgwethane laid the problems experienced at the hospital at the foot of a high patient load experienced at the hospital. “The Orthopaedics Department is experiencing a critical shortage, primarily due to an exceptionally high patient load that significantly exceeds its catchment area - drawing patients from the North West, Free State, Northern Cape, Gauteng, and neighbouring countries.’’
He said this influx exhausted the budget for implantable sets by August 2025, leading to R18.1 million in outstanding invoices to service providers. He admitted that these suppliers halted services due to a lack of cash flow, causing a standstill in essential orthopaedic operations.
According to him, the province has since allocated funding to cover the R18.1 million debt, and all outstanding invoices are being processed to restore the supply of implants. Once materials are secured, the department plans “marathon operations” to clear the surgical backlog. He said long-term measures to prevent recurrence include enforcing correct referral pathways and improving budget management and revenue collection.
Meanwhile, a patient like Johan* is still waiting to be operated on after a fall from scaffolding on October 24, fracturing his foot. “I was admitted to Tshepong and needed an external fixator, which they don’t have. I could not lie indefinitely in hospital because I have a child at home and four dogs to take care of, and I discharged myself.
“For weeks, I’ve been going back there every Tuesday, and every time they remove the plaster cast, send me for x-rays and then I get a cast again with some pain meds. After last week’s visit my next appointment is only on January 13 with the same story that there is no money for surgery.’’
He is a single parent who cannot work due to his injury. “The longer my foot takes to heal, I am left without an income. I have to look to others for help.’’
* Johan is a pseudonym.
